Mental Retardation

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Mental retardation is a term for significantly below average intelligence and intellectual functioning. Also known as intellectual disability, mental retardation can be caused by a wide range of problems, including preventable birth injuries. It is important to note that mental retardation is not the same as developmental delay, a term that is used in very young children when the diagnosis is not clear. Some developmental delays can be due to a learning disability, among other reasons.

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) about 10 percent of all children have some sort of learning disability, whereas only about 3 percent have some form of mental retardation.

Mental retardation originates during the developmental period, anywhere between conception and age 18. Kids with mental retardation are evaluated for their condition based on IQ (intelligence quotient) and adaptive life skills. Generally, an IQ score of 69 or lower indicates mental retardation. Since the term mental retardation carries significant stigma, most professionals prefer the term intellectual disability.

Causes of Mental Retardation

Some forms of intellectual disability are caused by genetic factors. Unfortunately, there are many cases caused by birth injuries that were preventable. If you suspect that your child’s mental retardation was caused by improper or negligent medical care, call us today. A birth injury lawsuit can help provide financial compensation to help pay for medical care, and possibly prevent a similar injury from happening to another child.

The unofficial start of filing a lawsuit begins with your first phone call. When you call us for a birth injury lawsuit consultation, you will have the opportunity to talk with one of our nurse case managers. Our nurse case managers are available to talk seven days a week. Our team of registered nurses has the education, clinical background, and experience to serve as a knowledgeable resource to help you start the process of getting your questions answered.

During the call, you’ll discuss the medical care and treatment that the mother and child received, and gather the information necessary for our legal team to conduct a review of your potential claim. You will be asked about the details of the mother’s pregnancy, delivery, and the condition of the child at the time of delivery and shortly after birth.

There is no cost to you for us to represent you and your family in a birth injury claim. Sokolove Law only gets paid if you receive money from your case.